Guardiola: Title special because it was so tough

Punch created the topic: Guardiola: Title special because it was so tough

Man City head coach savours first Premier League Trophy and acknowledges challenge of retaining title

Pep Guardiola said the challenge of the Premier League made Manchester City’s presentation of the Trophy today so special.

Vincent Kompany, the City captain, lifted the Premier League Trophy for the third time but it was the first time Guardiola had got his hands on it.

"England is special, it's so tough – we saw that today,” the City head coach said. “That's what makes this so special."

For the first time, City were unable to score at home in the league as Huddersfield Town claimed a goalless draw and Guardiola said the result reminded him of the challenges of the competition.

"Today was the proof we can do better," he said, adding that City's average age showed that there was potential for improvement.

"Last season, the average age was 31. Now, we have 25, 26. The new guys have really good energy and they have really good human qualities."

And as for becoming the first team to retain the title in 10 years, Guardiola acknowledged it would not be easy.

"We’ve seen in recent seasons how the team who won the Premier League has not even qualified for the Champions League the following year so making back-to-back titles in this league will be tough but we accept the challenge."